A mechanic’s lien is a security interest in real or personal property that is acquired by someone who adds material or labor to improve the property. A mechanic’s lien usually remains in effect until the lien holder (the auto repair shop) is paid for the material or labor added to the property. For a movable piece of property like a car, the property owner’s failure to pay the auto repair shop for material or labor may allow the auto repair shop to keep possession of the car until the owner pays for the material and labor. In the auto repair context, a mechanic’s lien is sometimes called a garageman’s lien.

In Missouri, a mechanic's lien, also known as a garageman's lien in the context of auto repairs, is a legal claim against a vehicle for unpaid repairs or improvements made by an auto repair shop or mechanic. Under Missouri statutes, specifically Section 429.010 and following, mechanics and other such persons who furnish labor or materials for repairing a vehicle have a lien upon that vehicle to secure payment. This lien applies to both real and personal property. The lien remains in effect until the debt is satisfied. If the vehicle owner fails to pay for the services rendered, the mechanic may retain possession of the vehicle until payment is made. To enforce the lien, the mechanic must follow specific procedures outlined in state law, which may include filing a lawsuit and obtaining a court judgment. It is important for both property owners and mechanics to understand their rights and obligations under Missouri's mechanic's lien laws to ensure proper legal processes are followed.